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Guided Istanbul Old City Tour: Explore Byzantine Structures and Grand Bazaar
5.0
3 Ratings
Istanbul
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Istanbul on this guided tour of the Old City. Visit iconic Byzantine structures like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, and explore the vibrant Grand Bazaar. Don't miss this opportunity to discover the ancient treasures of Istanbul!
Duration:
6 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
learn more
Highlights
- Hagia Sophia Mosque - The Hagia Sophia that you can visit today was the primary church of Byzantine Constantinople and was built upon the site of two earlier churches that had been destroyed. Emperor Justinian I (527-565) commissioned the project and had materials brought in from all around his empire for the massive church’s construction. The Hagia Sophia was the most important church of the Christian East. Structurally, it was the first of its design and boasted the largest dome that had yet been engineered which provided a voluminous and well illuminated interior. After Constantinople fell to the Ottomans in 1453, the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque and was used as such throughout the Ottoman period. Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the modern Turkish Republic’s most revered founding father and its first Prime Minister, initiated the process to have the Hagia Sophia transformed into a museum which opened for visitors in February 1935.
What's Included
- Pick up and return transfer to your hotel
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Guided Full Day Istanbul City Tour
- Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking coach
- All entrance fees included
What's Not Included
- Personal expenses: Lunches, extras at hotel or additional meals
- Tipping: Tips for guides and drivers
Additional Information
This all-day Istanbul excursion encompasses historically significant landmarks:
- Hagia Sophia, a significant Byzantine edifice in Istanbul and one of the world’s most admired structures.
- Sultanahmet Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque due to the blue tiles adorning the interior walls. (Not open on Fridays)
- The Topkapi Palace, formerly the primary dwelling and administrative center for the mighty Ottoman Empire’s sultans. (Not open on Tuesdays)
- The Hippodrome of Constantinople, situated in Sultanahmet/Istanbul, was primarily a popular venue for chariot racing.
- The Grand Bazaar, constructed in the 15th century, is the world’s oldest indoor market. (Not open on Sundays)
Location
Hagia Sophia Mosque
Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya MeydanI No:1
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(3 Ratings)
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B5364uddavidm
May 25, 2023
Istanbul!! - We joined this tour. The guide (Berk) was enjoyable and knowledgeable. We visited Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar. Istanbul is an amazing city. Highly recommended
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jamesfalcon1
Jan 20, 2022
I love Turkey and turkish culture - Turkey was beautiful,
Cappadocia Pamukkale and Ephesus I had a nice time,I enjoyed the ephesus and istanbul tour a lot.. Apasas travel organized the ephesus and istanbul tour, they made me very happy,I had an amazing time with his excellent team and guide...thank you very much APASAS TRAVEL you left me a nice memory
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Janetn19
Aug 17, 2021
City tour Istanbul - İ loved the old city tour the atmosphere from the hippodrome and the old town . A good guide who spoke fluent English
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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